The guys in the Woovs may be in their 20s, but they're more influenced by '70s artists like David Bowie and the Rolling Stones than bands they heard growing up in the '90s. For their second release, No Entertaining in the City, the band expanded its lineup to give the songs a bigger sound. The most notable addition is drummer Dave Dibello. Before he joined, the band recorded and played live without a drummer for several years. They weren't actively seeking a drummer but were open to the idea if the right guy came along. They also added Rick Markosky on bass, moving original bassist Brant Novak to join Kevin Hamric on guitar. Singer Adam Lengyel and keyboardist Bryan Delauder round things out.

"The new members help fill out the sound and enhance the live element, [but] they're becoming more involved in the creative process as well," says Lengyel. "We've definitely grown closer over the past four years. Our skin is tougher and we're able to communicate and cooperate more effectively."

The Woovs also upgraded in the studio. "We spent a lot more time on the recording and production," says Delauder. "We had it professionally mixed and mastered by Matt Curry from Ante Up Audio."

Curry's touch gives No Entertaining the boost the group's sound needed. Their soulful blend of rock, pop and R&B requires attention to detail — lo-fi recordings never did them justice. While their debut was a terrific starting point, their latest album showcases the Woovs' true form.

Hamric says the title refers to the opposition they've faced as a young band trying to make it in music. But if their growing fan base is any indication, those days may soon be behind them. While they still play in their hometown of Barberton — which with the Woovs' help has started to develop its own scene — they now play regularly at Cleveland venues like the Beachland Ballroom and the Grog Shop. They also scored spots opening for No Doubt and Coldplay in Indianapolis this past summer. While they're becoming professionals, they're not jaded yet. Their wide-eyed enthusiasm is clear when they talk about the Coldplay gig.

"They put us up in the Hilton and treated us like kings for a night," says Hamric, who adds that they're looking to do more extensive touring next year.

The Woovs will ring in 2010 with a CD release party on New Year's Eve at Barberton Band Boosters Hall. The show will be about much more than the music.

"We wanted to have a big party," says DeLauder. "It's a masquerade ball with three bands, food, alcohol, raffles, prizes, a cookoff, a costume contest, a dance party, taxi service and much more."

The guys are excited to kick back with their fans in a hometown setting. "We put it all out there, and our fans expect that from us," says Hamric. "We're always looking to give a potential fan a great show, wherever that may be."

Lengyel says that what sets the Woovs apart from other local bands is their determination.

"We just work hard every day," he says. "We're passionate about our music, and we place an emphasis on originality and being true to ourselves. People respect that."